Auf die
FamilLiCH.
Intro
1895
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Our story
WELCOME TO OUR FAMILY-OWNED BREWERY, now
IN its FIFTH GENERATION.
This is where it all began. Peter Josef Früh, who came from a brewing family in Brühl, founded the “Apostel-Bräu” in 1895. Since 1904, we have brewed our FRÜH Kölsch in Cologne for everyone who loves Cologne, its lively brewhouse culture and great beer. Take a look back at more than a century of Rhineland brewing tradition.
How it all began.
At Apostelnstraße 19, Peter Josef Früh founded “Aposteln-Bräu”. He was allowed to brew beer, but not serve it, because the city of Cologne saw “no need” for another pub. But Peter Josef Früh did not agree and refused to give up. Soon afterwards, “Aposteln-Bräu” became a popular gathering place.
Opening “Cölner Hofbräu Früh am Dom”
A few years later, FRÜH moved into the heart of Cologne. At “Am Hof 12”, in the former “Central Theater” and the “Schützenliesel” restaurant, Peter Josef Früh opened the “Früh am Dom” brewhouse together with a brewery for top-fermented beer. Some doubted whether a true brewhouse atmosphere could succeed so close to Cologne Cathedral. But after the opening in autumn of 1904, “FRÜH am Dom” quickly became a popular destination for everyone who loves Kölsch and Cologne - and soon established itself as a true institution for freshly tapped Kölsch, brewhouse culture and Rhineland hospitality.
Früh Kölsch in times of crisis
After the death of Peter Josef Früh, his wife Gertrud took over the “FRÜH am Dom” brewhouse together with their daughters Netty and Christel. But inflation, global economic crisis and the following depression challenged the brewing tradition. After Gertrud died in 1930, Engelbert Rochels became the first person outside the family to take over the management of the brewhouse.
Früh during the second world war
The Second World War destroyed large parts of Cologne. Around 90 percent of the city centre was left in ruins. “FRÜH am Dom” was also severely damaged and almost completely burned down in 1944. Fortunatly, the brewery itself remained intact, allowing brewing to resume soon afterwards.
rebuilding with heart
While most of Cologne was still being cleared of rubble, brewing at FRÜH had already resumed. The facade was restored, and the brewhouse interior carefully rebuilt. During this time, FRÜH not only brewed its own Kölsch, but also produced low-alcohol beer for other breweries whose facilities had been destroyed - a true example of Cologne solidarity.
New Generation, new growth
Hermann Müller Senior and Eduard Rolff took over the management. Modern technology, combined with traditional craftsmanship, laid the foundation for FRÜH´s continued growth.
Früh kölsch goes bottled
In 1969, FRÜH Kölsch was introduced in bottles. From then on, it could be enjoyed not only in the brewhouse, but also at home or on the go.
FRÜH keeps growing
FRÜH continued to grow in popularity. In 1976, annual production passed 100,000 hectoliters for the first time. Demand kept growing, and FRÜH continued to expand.
Früh in a can & Opening of Früh “Em Veedel”
Two important milestones supported FRÜH´s growth in 1979: FRÜH Kölsch was launched in cans, and FRÜH “Em Veedel” brewhouse opened in Cologne´s Südstadt district. This made FRÜH even more accessible to Kölsch lovers across Cologne.
Früh Kölsch
expands
Success needs space: A new brewery with modern technology was built on the northern edge of Cologne. The focus on quality, freshness and taste remained.
The Partycan
In the mid-1980s, FRÜH launched a new product in response to growing demand: the 5 L partycan. It brought freshly tapped FRÜH Kölsch into homes and gardens - perfect for sharing with family and friends.
The first alcohol-free Kölsch
With FRÜH Kölsch Alcohol-Free, we launched the very first alcohol free Kölsch, offering a new option for Kölsch lovers. Since 2007, our alcohol free Kölsch has contained 0.0% alcohol.
The iconic advertising is born
FRÜH advertising has had its own unique style for decades. Clear messages, bold typography and clever humor make it instantly recognizable. Short phrases, sometimes with a double meaning, get straight to the point. The design is simple and direct: red, white and unmistakably Kölsch. A little fun fact: the first campaigns were created by an agency from Düsseldorf.
Opening of the brewhouse-cellar
The former brewery rooms at our historic headquarters were given a new purpose. In January 1998, we opened Cologne´s first brewhouse cellar in the medieval vaulted rooms, adding another highlight in our brewhouse.
New leadership in fifth generation
Alexander Rolff and Phillip C. Müller took over the management of the family business as the fifth generation. Together with around 400 employees, they make sure FRÜH Kölsch continues to taste exactly as it should: fresh, honest and truly Kölsch.
Growth And Export
From Cologne to the world: FRÜH Kölsch has become an ambassador for Rhineland brewing tradition. It is enjoyed from Heligoland to Munich and exported to more than 30 markets worldwide. Today, FRÜH produces nearly 400,000 hectoliters a year.
25 years of
Früh "Em VEEDEL“
The popular pub in Cologne’s Südstadt celebrated its 25th anniversary as a FRÜH brewhouse. For a quarter of a century, FRÜH “Em Veedel” has been a popular meeting place for regulars and Kölsch lovers. With traditional Cologne food, freshly tapped FRÜH Kölsch and a strong connection to the neighborhood, it continues to represent authentic Cologne pub culture.
opening of “Eden Hotel Früh am Dom”
In 2005, “Eden Hotel FRÜH am Dom” opened in the heart of Cologne, offering guests comfort, Cologne hospitality and views of the city´s most famous landmark. The 3 start superior hotel complements the FRÜH brewhouse tradition and offers visitors a combination of experiencing Cologne and FRÜH Kölsch.
Früh Growth beyond
In November 2009, the popular FRÜH “Em Golde Kappes” reopened. Founded in 1913, the traditional neighborhood pub in northern Cologne became part of the FRÜH family and a popular meeting place for Kölsch lovers.
opening “FRÜH Lounge”
High above the rooftops of Cologne, the FRÜH Lounge opened as a special event location with views of Cologne Cathedral. It offers the perfect setting for events and unforgettable moments combined with a fresh tapped FRÜH Kölsch.
The first Cologne Radler
In the same year, we launched the first Cologne Radler. FRÜH Kölsch meets refreshing lemon, creating a light and summery beer mix.
Award-winning brewing craftsmanship
In 2014, Cölner Hofbräu Früh received the Slow Brewing quality seal for the first time and has received it every year since. The certification confirms the high brewing quality and traditional brewing craftsmanship behind FRÜH Kölsch. FRÜH is the only Kölsch brewery to hold this award.
Früh Sport Fassbrause
In the same year, we introduced FRÜH Sport Fassbrause, an isotonic Cologne Fassbrause based on Kölsch. The lemon-flavoured refreshment is completely alcohol free (0.0%) and combines full flavour with a refreshing, sporty character.
Football World Champion Lukas Podolski supported the launch and represented the brand for several years. A world champion ambassador for a winning taste.
111 years Früh Kölsch
A milestone that could only be celebrated in true Cologne style: 111 years of Früh Kölsch were marked across all our brewhouses with special posters, an anniversary book and special activities for our guests. It was a true Cologne celebration, showing the close connection between the brewery, the city and Kölsch lovers. Cheers to the next 111 years of FRÜH enjoyment!
FRÜH „Em Jan von Werth“ Joins the Family
A new home for Cologne brewhouse culture. In 2018, FRÜH continued to grow by welcoming the traditional Cologne pub FRÜH “Em Jan von Werth” into the FRÜH family. The brewhouse is known for traditional Cologne cuisine and freshly tapped FRÜH Kölsch – another popular meeting place for authentic brewhouse culture in Cologne.
FRÜH „Em Tattersall“ opens
In 2021, we opened another FRÜH brewhouse with a large beer garden: “FRÜH Em Tattersall”, located at Cologne´s historic racecourse. The spacious beer garden offers Cologne tradition, good food and drinks in an unique setting. It is a popular meeting place for Kölsch lovers, horse racing fans and special events.
FRÜH NATURRADLER is launched
Our new FRÜH NaturRadler combines FRÜH Kölsch with a natural lemon soft drink – unfiltered, light and refreshing.
Opening FRÜH “HIMMEL OP ÄÄD”
FRÜH expands its gastronomy in western Cologne with FRÜH “Himmel op Ääd”. The new concept combines modern Kölsch culture, regional cuisine and a special atmosphere. FRÜH “Himmel op Ääd” brings a touch of Cologne neighborhood life to the business district. With our “FRÜH’s Dillendöppche” system, guests can also take their favourite dishes home in reusable containers.
Exclusive Partnership with PerfectDraft
As the first Kölsch brand, we offer FRÜH Kölsch in a special PerfectDraft keg. The 6 L keg keeps FRÜH Kölsch fresh for up to 30 days and allows you to tap it at home. Golden, mild and fresh, just like in the brewhouse - perfect for enjoying FRÜH Kölsch with friends and family at home. A PerfectDraft dispensing system is required to use the keg.
New leadership team at früh kölsch
After 26 years at FRÜH Kölsch, Alexander Rolff hands over his management role to Frank Höhler. Together with Philipp C. Müller, he will form the new leadership team of the traditional Cologne brewery.
KÖLSCH-History
Cologne and its beer – A city shaped by brewing history
The story of Kölsch
Kölsch is Cologne’s favourite beer – but its history goes back much further than the Kölsch we know today.
The story begins in 1285 with Henricus Medebruwer (“mead brewer”) from Bechergasse, the first Cologne brewer known by name. In 1396, Cologne’s brewers formed their own guild, laying the foundation for a brewing tradition that still shapes the city today. At the time, Kölsch did not yet exist in its modern form. Instead of hops, brewers used a herbal mixture called gruit, and the beer fermented naturally with yeast from the air. By 1392, around 32,000 hectolitres of gruit beer were already being brewed in Cologne.
Purity, taste and history
More than 100 years before Bavaria introduced its Beer Purity Law in 1516, the Cologne City Council had already issued its own brewing regulations in 1412. Cologne brewers later adopted the Bavarian Purity Law, which still applies today. Hops became part of Cologne beer in the 15th century. The popular “Keutebier” of that time is considered a predecessor of Kölsch: pale, with a pronounced hop character and top fermented. By 1494, Cologne already had 64 breweries, producing around 65,000 hectolitres of beer.
From Wieß to Kölsch – how a classic was born
Industrialisation changed the way beer was brewed. Steam power and refrigeration brought modern brewing methods and replaced many traditional house breweries. But Cologne’s top-fermented beer survived. Over time, it became clearer and gained the name we know today: Kölsch. Pale, hop-forward and top-fermented, Kölsch became a distinctive beer style with strong connection to Cologne’s brewing tradition. The Kölsch Convention later helped protect this tradition by defining the rules for brewing and selling Kölsch. It also laid the foundation for Kölsch being recognised by the European Union as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).
MISSION & Values
Cologne at heart. Brewed with care.
At FRÜH Kölsch we believe that tradition means more than brewing great beer.
Our mission is to live by the values of Cologne – with passion, integrity and responsibility.
Whether through our commitment to sports, culture and the local community, or by promoting responsible alcohol consumption, we take responsibility for what brings us together: our city, our region and the enjoyment of a great beer.
Today, FRÜH stands for more than authentic Kölsch brewing. As a family-owned brewery, we preserve an important part of Cologne´s culture while actively shaping its future.
We stand for regional roots, authentic Kölsch and responsible enjoyment.
Authenticity
Real Cologne spirit.
Real FRÜH.
Responsibility in every Glass
Good times, good sense.
a way of life
Community, enjoyment and
Kölsch at heart.
Quality
Brewing craftsmanship since 1904.
Quality you can taste.
Tradition & Innovation
Preserving our roots.
Embracing new ideas.
togetherness
Standing together.
In Cologne and throughout the region.
REGIONAL. rooted.
in cologne.
At FRÜH, our connection to Cologne goes far beyond our Kölsch. This connection also shapes how we engage with our region. Whether at the stadium, the racecourse or in the “Veedel”, we support people, clubs and projects that keep Cologne moving and make our home city vibrant. Discover where FRÜH gets involved and builds partnerships.
Discover our SPONSORships
Brewing culture
with character
What matters to us goes beyond the label. You can taste it in every glas.
FRÜH Kölsch is brewed according to four clear principles. Not because we have to, but because this is how we have always done it, and how we believe it should be done.
Care & Quality
Every detail matters.
true to our roots
Cologne at heart.
Kölsch in the heart.
Time matters
Good beer takes time.
FRÜH Kölsch needs too.
Know-how
Crafted with skill.
Because great brewing takes experience
Cultur? Great!
We stand for our brewing culture. With patience, know how and a clear sense of what really matters. We value tradition, genuine expertise and long term partnerships. And we treat our products with the care they deserve. In the end, our FRÜH Kölsch is exactly how we want it to be.
Fairness, you can taste.
At FRÜH, we know the people behind our raw materials. We know them personally. Many of our regional partners have been working with us for generations. Long standing partnerships and great beer simply belong together. Maybe that will put a smile on your face when you enjoy your first FRÜH Kölsch.
Great taste has history.
Tradition does not mean that everything was better in the old days. For us, it means staying true to what has always made FRÜH special while carrying it into the future. One thing has remained at the heart of it all: the original recipe by Peter Josef Früh. It has shaped the taste of our FRÜH Kölsch for more than 120 years.
Quality takes time.
In times of industrial mass production, we focus on Slow Brewing. For us, it is more than just a seal. It reflects our philosophy and our belief that great things take time. That is why we give fermentation and maturation the time they need to fully develop.
SLOW BREWING
When brewing FRÜH Kölsch, we use only the finest ingredients: carefully selected barley malt, fresh hops and Cologne brewing water. It all goes back to Peter Josef Früh, who developed the original recipe for his own beer in 1904.
Brewed with
Care
Slow Brewing stands for high quality Kölsch at FRÜH.
With Slow Brewing, our beer gets the time it needs to develope its clear and balanced taste. The Slow brewing quality seal has existed since 2011 and focuses on beer culture, variety and quality. FRÜH has held the seal since 2014. Every year, an audit with more than 500 questions reviews both our brewery and our beer. For us, this is a clear sign that Kölsch takes time and care.
Our approach to resources.
We believe all these factors come together to create the fresh and distinctive taste of FRÜH Kölsch.
Cheers!
Time to mature
Good things take time. Our Kölsch gets the time it needs to develop its characteristic taste.
Fully traceable
All our raw materials are 100% traceable and carefully selected.
Regional ingredients
We use selected ingredients from regional cultivation for the characteristic taste of our Kölsch.
Water and Energy
Modern technology helps us reduce water and energy use in our production.
Carefully sourced
Our grain comes from selected suppliers with a focus on quality from the very beginning.
reusable bottles
We use reusable pool bottles instead of individually designed bottles, supporting the shared reuse system.
Shorter Routes
We work with regional partners and avoid unnecessary transport routes.
regularly checked
Slow Brewing checks more than 500 criteria covering both the brewery and the brewing process every year. The audit also includes the quality of FRÜH Kölsch.
Früh Kölsch is made to be enjoyed.
Absolutely! FRÜH Kölsch is wonderfully fresh, unmistakably Kölsch and unique. But true enjoyment also comes with responsibility. That is why we promote moderate alcohol consumption and support several campaigns by the German Brewers Association.
„BIER BEWUSST GENIESSEN“ (Enjoy Beer Responsibly) promotes moderate alcohol consumption. “BIER? SORRY. ERST AB 16" (Beer? Sorry. From 16 only) raises awareness of the legal drinking age and encourages young people to make responsible choices.
And with “DON´T DRINK AND DRIVE”, we encourage everyone to leave the car behind after drinking alcohol.
A Brewery
with TRADITION.
Some things never change. And that´s a good thing.
Since 1904, FRÜH has been a family owned brewery with deep roots in Cologne. We still brew our Kölsch using the original recipe, giving it the smooth, top fermented taste FRÜH is known for. Today, the fifth generation continues the family tradition with the same passion for brewing and the same high standards to brew the perfect Kölsch. Many things have changed over the years, but the taste of FRÜH Kölsch has stayed true to its roots.
FAMILy brewery
Tastes
great.
FRÜH´s product range
Whatever the occasion, there is a FRÜH to match. Grab one from the kiosk, keep a few at home, share them with friends or serve a whole team. From small everyday moments to bigger occasions, a summer walk or a visit to a restaurant or brewhouse, there is always a reason to enjoy FRÜH. Especially FRÜH.
Explore the range